Summary: This study analyzes wealth creation in Europe and the longevity of its fortunes over the last quarter-century. Western Europe emerges as a bulwark of stability in its fortunes, having the highest longevity rate in the world. The staying power of European fortunes is based on its tastemaker brands, and on keeping businesses private and in the family. Overall, Europe has had a strong pace of growth in wealth creation, having been aided by the emerging markets of Central and Eastern Europe. But can Europe hold on to its share of wealth creation based on its old strengths?

The information in this study is based on an exclusive analysis of ultra high net worth individuals in Europe conducted by Forbes Insights, as well as interviews with European industrialists and experts on European wealth creation. The analysis involved the study of Forbes Billionaires data collected over the last 25 years. Also analyzed was data from the Rich Lists created by Forbes Russia, Forbes Ukraine, Forbes Poland, Forbes Romania, Forbes Czech Republic and Forbes Turkey.

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